This Master's programme focuses on understanding the fundamental processes that govern the Earth's systems and how human activities impact them. It adopts an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together students and scientists from diverse backgrounds, including geosciences, life sciences, geography, chemistry, physics, mathematics, economics, and law. The curriculum emphasizes a rigorous, system-oriented analysis of environmental challenges, equipping students with advanced skills in natural sciences, particularly earth sciences and biology. The programme aims to prepare a new generation of professionals and scientists capable of addressing pressing global environmental issues.
The Master's program consists of 120 ECTS credits spread over four semesters. It includes compulsory modules, laboratories, research projects, specialization, and a Master's thesis. Key areas of study include fundamental environmental processes, system analysis, and the scientific principles underlying the human-environment relationship.
Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in science, economy, public administration, and international organizations. The programme's interdisciplinary and system-oriented education opens a wide range of career opportunities.
Eligibility is determined by the content of previous studies. Specific admission requirements and procedures are detailed on the university's admissions page.
All students are required to pay a semester fee for the Austrian National Union of Students (ÖH). For EU/EEA citizens and certain other groups, there are no tuition fees. For students from third countries, tuition fees may apply, but this programme at the University of Vienna does not list specific international tuition fees, implying they are waived or covered by other regulations for this Master's program. The provided living cost is an estimate.
The QS-World University Ranking by Subject has ranked the Environmental Systems programme among the best 100 programmes worldwide.
There are no tuition fees for Master's programmes at the University of Vienna. All students are required to pay a semester fee for the Austrian National Union of Students (ÖH).
The Master's programme consists of 120 ECTS credits and is designed to be completed over four semesters, which is equivalent to two academic years.
The language of instruction for the Environmental Systems: Processes – Pollution – Solutions Master's programme is English.
A relevant Bachelor's degree from the University of Vienna or an equivalent degree in fields like Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Geography, Meteorology, or Physics is required. Applicants from other disciplines may be considered based on their previous studies' content.
For programmes without an entrance exam, the application period typically opens in late June for the following academic year. You should submit your application during this designated period.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Environmental policy advisors, Environmental consultants, Project managers in environmental protection, Researchers in environmental science, and Officers in public administration or international organizations.